The year 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of American independence. Here’s where to celebrate the Fourth of July in Whatcom County, including events in Bellingham, Blaine, Birch Bay and Ferndale.
People’s Bank Fourth of July Spectacular
Families looking for all-day fun on the fourth would enjoy the People’s Bank Fourth of July Spectacular in Bellingham. In 2026, the festival returns to Zuanich Point Park and the Squalicum Boathouse. Join the celebration starting at 2 p.m., with kids’ games, activities, and art projects. Local food vendors will also be on site, offering a variety of items for purchase throughout the day. Enjoy the full lineup of festivities before Whatcom County’s largest fireworks display begins at 10:30 p.m.
Tuttle & Crump’s Freedom 250 Old Fashioned 4th of July
Celebrate America’s 250th Independence Day the old-fashioned way with a classic hometown celebration by the sea in Blaine. This massive celebration at the Canadian border offers free fun for everyone. With family activities all day, the fun starts at 10 a.m. Begin with a pancake breakfast at Blaine Community Center, then head to the street fair on H and 3rd Streets. Don’t miss the patriotic parade at noon and enjoy the Red, White and Vrooom Car Show, kids’ zone, beer garden and live music. At 10 p.m., appreciate the fireworks spectacular over Semiahmoo Bay for a night to remember.
July 4th in Birch Bay
Each Fourth of July, Birch Bay draws thousands of visitors for a full day of festivities and fireworks.During the day, visitors can enjoy Birch Bay’s beaches, local attractions, and outdoor recreation. After dusk, the celebration shifts to the sky with continuous fireworks displays that many consider among the Northwest’s most impressive.
Ferndale’s 4th of July Parade
From noon until 1 p.m., don’t miss Ferndale’s annual Fourth of July Parade as fire trucks, patriotic floats, and decorated vehicles travel down Main Street. The route starts at Main Street and Ocean Avenue and continues to Arlington Avenue.
BBQ, Beats & Booms at Hotel Bellwether
Celebrate the Fourth of July at Hotel Bellwether’s BBQ, Beats & Booms on the waterfront terrace, featuring headliner Baby Cakes. Enjoy top views of the grand finale fireworks over Bellingham Bay, along with a delicious BBQ dinner, drinks, and live music to carry the celebration into the evening.
Doors open at 6 p.m., with the band performing from 7 to 10 p.m., followed by the fireworks around 10:30 p.m. Adult admission is $85, and children ages 10 and under are $75, plus tax and fees, and includes entry, the live band, fireworks, and a BBQ dinner.
4th of July Fireworks Cruise with San Juan Cruises
Celebrate the Fourth of July on the water with San Juan Cruises’ 4th of July ride.Depart from the Bellingham Ferry Terminal for a Fourth of July fireworks cruise that includes a cracked crab and baked chicken dinner.
Relax on a scenic boat ride through Chuckanut and Bellingham Bays on a deluxe tour by boat. The vessels offer plenty of outdoor viewing space for 3.5 hours on the water around Bellingham Bay, followed by the spectacular fireworks display.
Consumer Firework Use in Whatcom County
Allowed days and times for consumer fireworks discharge in unincorporated Whatcom County are July 3 from 6 to 11 p.m., on July 4 from 6 p.m. to midnight, and on July 5 from 6 to 11 p.m.
Fireworks sales and discharge laws differ in each incorporated city in Whatcom County. Washington State Patrol offers this list with information regarding fireworks
Have a Fourth of July event not listed? Email the details to submit@WhatcomTalk.com.
